Gate installation and repair
A gate gets used more than any other part of a fence, and it's usually the first thing to go wrong.
Gates take a beating. They swing every day, catch the wind like a sail, and get pushed by snow piled against them. A gate that sags, drags or won't latch is one of the most common reasons people call a fence contractor.
What kind of gate do you need?
- Walk gates. Usually 3 to 4 feet wide, for people, mowers and wheelbarrows.
- Double drive gates. Two leaves that open wide enough for a vehicle, trailer or camper into the side yard or alley.
- Ranch and pasture gates. Steel tube or wood gates for equipment and livestock, hung on heavy posts.
- Garden gates. Tall, tight gates that keep deer out as well as the rest of the deer fence does.
Why do gates sag?
- The hinge post is too small, too shallow or leaning
- The gate frame has no diagonal brace, or the brace runs the wrong way
- Hinges are undersized for the gate's weight
- The wood has dried, shrunk and loosened at the joints
Gates and winter
In Missoula, snow and ice build up in front of gates. Ask for enough clearance underneath, a latch you can work with gloves on, and a plan for which way the gate swings so it isn't blocked by plowed snow all winter. A drop rod or cane bolt on double gates keeps the inactive leaf in place.
Repair or replace?
Many sagging gates can be fixed with a new hinge post, an anti-sag kit, bigger hinges or a rebuilt frame. If the gate itself is rotted or badly twisted, a new one is usually the better deal.
The contractor prices the job after walking the fence line, checking the ground, the slope and any gates, and hearing what the fence needs to do. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone before anyone has seen the property is only a ballpark.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can a sagging wood gate be fixed?
Often. A contractor may reset or replace the hinge post, add a brace or anti-sag cable, or upgrade hinges. A rotted gate is usually replaced.
How wide should a driveway gate be?
Wide enough for the largest vehicle or trailer you'll pull through, with room to spare. Measure what you have before you get quotes.
Related services
- Wood privacy fences
- Vinyl and chain link fences
- Ranch, garden and wildlife-friendly fences
- Fence repair
More background: Missoula fence guide.
Need a yard fenced, a gate fixed or a leaning run replaced?
Call now and a local fence contractor will come walk the line and quote the job.